What is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones. It leads to a lot of symptoms including swelling, flushing, skin thinning, and bulging eyes.
Thyroid hormones control essential body functions including digestion, breathing, heart rate, and body temperature.
Hyperthyroidism has several causes including thyroid nodules, autoimmune disorders, or the use of certain medications.
Facial Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid hormone supports the function of the outermost layers of the skin which is known as the epidermis. This is why the first sign of thyroid imbalance is noticed on the skin.
Warm and moist skin is the most common sign and more than 85% of people with hyperthyroidism notice this symptom.(1)
Following are the facial symptoms experienced by people:
- Facial flushing
- Itching
- Bulging eyes
- Swelling on face and neck
- Skin thinning
- Rashes
- Urticaria
- Skin hyperpigmentation
- Eye redness
- Hidradenitis suppurativa
Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
- Unintentional weight loss
- Hair loss
- Hyperactivity
- Excessive sweating
- Heat intolerance
- Nervousness and irritability
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Increased thirst
- Frequent bowel movements
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Loss of interest in sex
Complications of hyperthyroidism include blood clots, stroke, osteoporosis, heart failure, fertility issue, and pregnancy complications.
Treatment of Hyperthyroidism
Treatment of hyperthyroidism depends on the underlying cause. Depending on the severity of the disease and the characteristics of the individual, a treatment plan is created. The various treatment options include:(2)
- Antithyroid Medications: These medications lower the amount of thyroid hormone made by the gland.
- Beta Blocker: These medications control certain symptoms that are related to hyperthyroidism.
- Radioactive Iodine Therapy: The person with hyperthyroidism is given radioactive iodine orally. It enters the thyroid cells in the bloodstream and destroys them.
- Surgery: Removal of the thyroid gland surgically or thyroidectomy is a solution in certain cases. It is recommended only if anti thyroid medications or radioactive iodine therapy is not a viable option.
Outlook For Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is treatable. Proper medical evaluation and treatment are needed for its proper management to avoid complications like heart disease.
The aim of the treatment is to achieve a proper thyroid hormone level.
The outcome of hyperthyroidism varies depending on the cause, individual characteristics, and adherence to treatment. In a study found among the people with Graves’ disease, 45.3-96.3% achieved remission after the first line of treatment.(3)
However, sometimes treatment may have opposite effects and may lead to hypothyroidism, a disease in which the thyroid hormone is not produced in proper amounts.
Any person with signs and symptoms of thyroid disorder should see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The most affected organ in hyperthyroidism is the skin with the first signs on the face including rashes, redness, and swelling. With proper treatment, the symptoms of hyperthyroidism can be reduced.
